MLB Investigating Second Pitcher from the Guardians for Alleged Gambling Misconduct
Cleveland Guardians Pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz on Non-Disciplinary Paid Leave Amid MLB Sports Betting Investigation
Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz are currently on non-disciplinary paid leave through August 31, 2025, as Major League Baseball (MLB) continues its investigation into a sports betting probe.
Clase joined Ortiz, who was initially placed on leave on July 3, after the investigation began following unusual betting patterns on two specific pitches thrown by Ortiz in June. The pitches, thrown on June 15 against the Seattle Mariners and June 27 against the St. Louis Cardinals, were balls that triggered alerts due to a spike in bets on the first pitch being a ball or hit batsman. This unusual betting activity in New York, New Jersey, and Ohio raised concerns and led to MLB's inquiry.
The exact connection of Clase to the investigation remains unclear, but he has been included in the leave status as part of MLB's process. The Guardians have stated that no additional players or club personnel are expected to be involved in the probe, and the team is cooperating fully with MLB while respecting the confidential nature of the investigation.
As of the current season, Clase has 24 saves, a 5-3 record, a 3.23 earned-run average, and 47 strikeouts over 47 1/3 innings over 48 appearances. He has been a three-time American League All-Star and has led the league in saves for the past three seasons. On the other hand, Ortiz, obtained in a trade with Pittsburgh last December, has a 4-9 record, a 4.36 earned-run average, and 96 strikeouts in 16 appearances this season.
While on this non-disciplinary paid leave, both pitchers are not allowed access to team facilities but are permitted contact with the organization. Clase, who was a subject of trade speculation prior to the investigation, is now unlikely to be traded given his unavailability until at least August 31.
No further disciplinary actions or conclusions have been announced, and MLB has not provided additional comments until the investigation is completed. The Guardians have been informed that no additional players or team personnel are expected to be impacted by the investigation.
Despite being on non-disciplinary paid leave, Cleveland Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase continues to lead the league in saves, with 24 this season.
The baseball investigation into unusual betting patterns involving pitcher Luis Ortiz, which led to his initial leave on July 3, has now expanded to include Clase.
